Tips on Staying Happy and Healthy this Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate.

While this time of year can be joyful, it can also be a time of high-stress and over-indulging.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Americans gain about five to 10 pounds each holiday season and lose considerable amounts of sleep. This can lead to spending the beginning of the New Year trying to work off the weight gain and mentally recharge.

Benefits.gov has put together a list of tips and resources to help you stay happy and healthy this holiday season.

Enjoy food in moderation: You can enjoy all the holiday potlucks and buffets, but a tip to eating in moderation is to watch your portion sizes. Be sure to also eat healthy snacks throughout the day before it is time to enjoy a large dinner. Learn more about dietary recommendations from the American Heart Association on their website.

Stay hydrated: During the cold weather this time of year, it is easy to forget to bring a bottle of water. One way to avoid catching a cold is by staying hydrated!

Take some time for yourself: There can be many obligations during the holiday season. Whether you are hosting a get-together or responsible for picking up a few extra hours at work, it is important to take some time to relax. Try taking a day off from work, walking for 15 minutes during a busy day, or staying at home to recoup rather than going out. Be sure to take some time to focus on your needs. Look into these helpful resources for tips on managing stress and seasonal depression.

Get your steps in: It can be easy to put exercise on hold during the holidays. While our time to exercise may be limited, trying to get steps in any way you can, can help! Take the stairs, walk to work, or park a little further away from the entrance to the store. This holiday season, wear a pedometer as you are running errands, and see how many steps you can accumulate.

Give Back: Take an active role in your community this holiday season by giving back to those in need. Make it a family affair by volunteering with loved ones to make a difference. USA.gov has some great volunteer opportunities for you and your family to consider.

We encourage you to take control of your physical and mental health by incorporating some of these practices into your lifestyle this season. Be an example and empower your friends and family to do the same. Have a happy holiday!

For more information on over 1,200 government benefit and assistance programs, including healthcare and food/nutrition, complete our Benefit Finder to discover what benefits you may be eligible for. We also encourage you to visit our homepage for more resources.